Sydney-based Sindy Crow is a lighting programmer and operator for live events, nightclubs and corporate events.
What led you to your current work?
I had a friend in High School who did audio so I started helping by doing lighting and never looked back.
What are you working on now or about to start work on?
Currently, I work at ARQ nightclub and the Beresford Hotel, as well as various regular events at the ICC and the State Theatre. I’m also preparing for the World Pride and Mardi Gras events to kick off which will fill up February and March.
What are the good things about your job?
The variety and creativity of the work, being a freelance operator means I’m doing different types of shows all the time. And the people you get to work with.
What are the worse things about your job?
Again being freelance the worst thing is not having a consistent schedule, some weeks are non-stop and others don’t even get going. It’s very hard to find a work-life balance in this industry.
What, so far, has been your career highlight?
Oh wow, many. Being the front of house systems tech for Sydney New Year’s Eve, Sydney Gay and Lesbian mardi gras, the first KPop festival in Australia, being involved in the team that has helped bring ARQ nightclub back to life …. yeah many highlights over the last almost 30 years.
What is the most blatant example of sexism you have encountered at work?
When I started it was terrible and though it has gotten a lot better, it’s still there. I’ve seen many good women techs shuffled off to office positions instead of being supported to grow. Those that do stay experience being talked down to, given the simple task, being explained to like it’s the first day and being constantly checked up on doing tasks when the boys have been left to it. I am grateful that I haven’t suffered from sexual or emotional abuse in the workplace but again I have seen it and had to help and support pick up the pieces left behind.
What advice would you give to any woman thinking of a career in the entertainment industry?
Do it, know your worth, know your skills and most importantly try to find a mentor. Find a woman or woman who has done what you want to do and ask for help, ask for advice, and learn from them.
What is your career goal?
Just to keep getting better at what I do, doing bigger and better shows. I’d love to operate a show at the Opera House and the Opera House forecourt, being a Sydney girl this is obviously a historic venue. As a woman and a proud member of the LGBTQAI+ community, I do want to make the industry a better safer and more accepting place for everyone. And I still haven’t given up the dream of a world tour.
